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NFL teams trimmed their rosters to 53 players Sunday. That process created opportunities for hundreds of players across the league. Some cuts surprised fans and analysts alike. Several veterans also hit the market with plenty left to offer. Meanwhile, younger players could benefit from a fresh opportunity. Here are 13 players who could make an impact with new teams.
- Will Levis, QB
The Tennessee Titans moved on from Will Levis after three seasons. The former Kentucky standout never found consistent success in Tennessee. Still, Levis has physical tools that teams value. He has a strong arm and plenty of athletic ability. A quarterback-needy team could take a chance on his upside. A better situation could help rebuild his confidence. Levis should attract interest from teams seeking quarterback depth. He could also compete for a starting job.
- Jaydon Blue, RB
The Dallas Cowboys surprisingly waived Jaydon Blue before the deadline. Blue showed promise during the preseason. He recorded 94 rushing yards on 23 carries during two games. Dallas ultimately kept veteran Malik Davis as its backup. That decision opened the door for another team. Blue has youth, speed and receiving ability. Those traits could make him valuable in a creative offense. A team could quickly give him a larger role.
- Jaleel McLaughlin, RB
Denver made one of its toughest decisions with Jaleel McLaughlin. The Broncos kept Tyler Badie instead of McLaughlin. General manager George Paton called McLaughlin the toughest cut. McLaughlin has appeared in 41 NFL games. He also has nine career starts. He remains an explosive runner with useful receiving ability. His experience should help him find another opportunity. A team needing a change-of-pace back could benefit immediately.
- Cedric Tillman, WR
The Cleveland Browns released Cedric Tillman earlier this week. The former third-round pick still has intriguing potential. Tillman has 71 career catches for 833 yards. He also has five career touchdowns across 38 games. Injuries and Cleveland’s crowded receiver room hurt his chances. However, Tillman remains only 26 years old. A new offense could unlock more of his potential. Teams needing size outside should take a serious look.
- Marcus Davenport, DE
The Chicago Bears released Marcus Davenport after signing him this offseason. Davenport brings significant NFL experience to the free-agent market. He has recorded 25 career sacks. Health concerns have affected his availability throughout his career. However, his pass-rushing ability remains valuable. A contender could use Davenport as a rotational pass rusher. He could also provide veteran leadership to a young defensive line. That combination makes him worth another chance.
- Zay Jones, WR
The Houston Texans released veteran receiver Zay Jones. Jones joined Houston during training camp. The Texans ultimately decided their receiver room had better options. Still, Jones brings extensive NFL experience. He has produced at multiple stops throughout his career. He can play outside and work from the slot. That versatility should appeal to teams dealing with injuries. A team could use him as a reliable veteran target.
- Sterling Shepard, WR
The Texans also moved on from Sterling Shepard. Shepard has dealt with injuries during his career. However, he has remained a respected veteran receiver. He understands route concepts and can work underneath. He also brings valuable experience to a young locker room. A contender could use Shepard as a rotational receiver. His best value could come on third downs. He does not need a massive workload to help an offense.
- Deion Jones, LB
The San Francisco 49ers released veteran linebacker Deion Jones. The timing makes his release particularly interesting. San Francisco acquired Jones from the New Orleans Saints this offseason. Jones has extensive starting experience at linebacker. He also earned Pro Bowl recognition during his career. His athleticism could still help the right defense. A team needing linebacker depth could call quickly. Jones could provide experience while younger players develop.
- Eli Apple, CB
The 49ers also released veteran cornerback Eli Apple. Apple has played for several NFL teams during his career. He has also started games in multiple defensive systems. That experience can become valuable during the regular season. Injuries often force teams to search for experienced corners. Apple could provide immediate depth for a secondary. He also understands the pressure that comes with playing outside. A team could sign him before Week 1.
- Charlie Jones, WR/Returner
The Cincinnati Bengals released Charlie Jones despite his special-teams production. Jones averaged 27.7 yards per kickoff return in 2025. That production gives him a strong selling point. Return specialists can quickly find opportunities around the league. Teams constantly need reliable players in the return game. Jones could also contribute as a receiver. His versatility gives him another path onto an active roster. Special teams could ultimately get him another NFL opportunity.
- Colby Wooden, DT
The Indianapolis Colts waived defensive tackle Colby Wooden. The Colts acquired Wooden from Green Bay during the offseason. However, he could not secure a roster spot. Wooden entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick in 2023. He also has experience playing along the defensive front. A team could view him as a developmental interior defender. His youth makes him especially intriguing. A different coaching staff could also maximize his strengths.
- Kyle Trask, QB
The Carolina Panthers released Kyle Trask during their final roster moves. Trask spent several seasons developing behind Baker Mayfield in Tampa Bay. He later joined Carolina and competed for a roster spot. He has limited regular-season experience. Still, teams always need reliable quarterback depth. Trask understands NFL offenses and quarterback-room responsibilities. He could compete for a backup role elsewhere. The right system could give him another chance.
- Nick Mullens, QB
The Jacksonville Jaguars released veteran quarterback Nick Mullens. Mullens spent last season backing up Trevor Lawrence. Jacksonville released him after acquiring Quinn Ewers from Miami. Mullens has eight years of NFL experience. He has also made numerous starts throughout his career. Teams value quarterbacks who understand offensive systems. Mullens can provide that experience immediately. He could become one of the more reliable backup options available.
Several Players Could Benefit from a Fresh Start
Roster cuts often say more about team construction than player ability. Teams have limited roster spots every season. Sometimes talented players simply lose a numbers game. That could happen with several names on this list. Levis and Trask need opportunities to restart their careers. Blue and McLaughlin need teams willing to feature their speed. Meanwhile, veterans like Davenport, Jones and Shepard can provide immediate experience. They could also help younger teammates develop.
The waiver wire should create plenty of movement this week. Teams will continue searching for affordable roster upgrades. The initial 53-man rosters also remain fluid. Injuries could create additional opportunities before Week 1. Therefore, these 13 players should remain on the radar. A new team could give each player the opportunity they need. The strongest potential impact players from this group are Will Levis, Jaydon Blue, Jaleel McLaughlin, Cedric Tillman and Marcus Davenport. The NFL’s roster landscape will change quickly over the next several days.
These 13 players can and will make an impact on a new team if given a achance.
Author Profile
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Bradley Walker (VP) and Head of our Florida operations for NGSC Sports, bringing extensive experience across collegiate, professional, and amateur athletics. His coverage spans USF Athletics, including football, baseball, lacrosse, and softball, as well as University of Tampa baseball.
Bradley also provides coverage of minor league baseball with the Clearwater Threshers and Major League Baseball with the Tampa Bay Rays. On the national stage, he covers college football bowl games and conference championship matchups, along with premier golf events across the PGA Tour, LIV Golf, and LPGA Tour.
In addition to his reporting work, Bradley is the play-by-play announcer for Pinellas Park High School Patriots football, lending his voice and insight to Friday night lights.
He is also an active podcast host and contributor, serving as a host on The Walker Report, where he delivers in-depth sports analysis, interviews, and coverage across multiple levels of competition.
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